Japan's Three Great Hot Springs

Japan is known as a hot spring paradise, boasting numerous hot spring resorts nationwide. Among these, there are three particularly renowned hot springs known for their history, therapeutic benefits, and scenic beauty: Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture), Gero Onsen (Gifu Prefecture), and Arima Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture). Let's take a closer look at these hot springs.

Kusatsu Onsen (Gunma Prefecture)

Overview

Kusatsu Onsen is located in Kusatsu Town, Gunma Prefecture, and is one of Japan's most representative hot spring resorts. It has a long history and has been cherished by many since the Edo period. The "Yubatake" in the center of the hot spring town is a symbol of Kusatsu Onsen.

Benefits

The water of Kusatsu Onsen is a strongly acidic sulfur spring, known for its high bactericidal properties, which are effective for skin diseases and atopic dermatitis. It is also beneficial for rheumatism, neuralgia, and muscle pain.

Tourist Spots

In addition to Yubatake, Kusatsu Onsen's highlights include "Sainokawara Park," which offers a view of the hot spring town, and "Yuroji," which retains the atmosphere of the Edo period. During winter, the nearby ski resort is bustling, making Kusatsu a tourist destination enjoyable year-round.

Gero Onsen (Gifu Prefecture)

Overview

Gero Onsen is located in Gero City, Gifu Prefecture, and has been a hot spring resort since the Edo period. It is loved by many literary figures and artists, and it is known as one of the "Three Famous Hot Springs" along with Kusatsu Onsen and Arima Onsen.

Benefits

Gero Onsen's water is an alkaline simple spring, which is gentle on the skin and has beautifying effects. It is also expected to be effective for neuralgia, joint pain, poor circulation, and recovery from fatigue.

Tourist Spots

Highlights of Gero Onsen include the "Gero Onsen Museum" and "Onsenji Temple," as well as many foot baths in the hot spring town. At night, the illuminated hot spring town creates a magical atmosphere.

Arima Onsen (Hyogo Prefecture)

Overview

Arima Onsen is located in Kobe City, Hyogo Prefecture, and is considered Japan's oldest hot spring resort. With a history of over 1,300 years, it is mentioned in ancient texts such as the "Nihon Shoki" and the "Manyoshu."

Benefits

The distinguishing feature of Arima Onsen is its diverse types of springs, particularly the "Gold Spring" and "Silver Spring." The Gold Spring is a ferruginous sodium chloride strong saline hot spring, beneficial for rheumatism, neuralgia, and skin diseases. The Silver Spring is a radium spring, known to stimulate metabolism, and is good for fatigue recovery and beauty.

Tourist Spots

Popular attractions in Arima Onsen include public baths like "Kin no Yu" and "Gin no Yu." The hot spring town, with its preserved old streets, offers traditional crafts and local gourmet delights. Additionally, its proximity to Mount Rokko provides excellent opportunities for nature walks.

Conclusion

Japan's three great hot springs—Kusatsu Onsen, Gero Onsen, and Arima Onsen—each offer unique histories, benefits, and attractions. Each hot spring resort is worth visiting, providing ideal places for relaxation and rejuvenation. When planning a hot spring trip, be sure to consider visiting these renowned hot springs.

What are Japanese hot springs? Disseminating history and charm